Say Goodnight to
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can really put kinks in your sleep, but don't worry; you're not alone! At Mid-South TMJ and Sleep Apnea Dental Treatment Center in Collierville, Dr. Blanton is here to help you understand this condition.
Sleep apnea occurs when your breathing stops and starts while catching some Z's. But we have the know-how and the friendly care to help you sleep like a baby again.
What's Keeping You Up?
Sleep apnea is a common but often overlooked sleep disorder that affects many people. It occurs when your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to interrupted rest and potential health risks.
Based in Collierville, Dr. Blanton has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating this condition.
There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and mixed, each with unique characteristics and causes.
Understanding the type and underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.
With Dr. Blanton's expertise, patients in the Collierville area can find personalized solutions to address sleep apnea and enjoy a more restful night's sleep.
Is Sleep Apnea Treatable?
Absolutely! Sleep apnea might sound intimidating, but it's a condition that our team can effectively manage with the right approach.
Dr. Blanton offers various treatment options in Collierville. Our team adjusts treatment according to each patient's specific needs and preferences.
From making simple lifestyle changes to utilizing specialized oral appliance therapy, there are several paths to better rest and respite. The key is finding the right combination that works for you.
Plus, our office offers innovative approaches to oral appliance therapy. Your path to better sleep starts here.
Sleep Apnea Solutions Within Your Grasp
Making some simple adjustments to your daily habits can profoundly impact managing sleep apnea. Here's a look at some lifestyle changes Dr. Blanton often recommends to his patients in Collierville.
Lose Weight
Shedding those extra pounds can reduce or even eliminate sleep apnea symptoms. A healthy diet and regular exercise can make a world of difference.
Avoid Alcohol
Limiting alcohol, especially before bedtime, can prevent your throat muscles from relaxing too much, often leading to snoring and sleep apnea.
Change Sleeping Positions
Sleeping on your back can cause your tongue and soft palate to collapse to the back of your throat. Try sleeping on your side to keep the airways open.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can increase inflammation and fluid retention in the throat, worsening sleep apnea. Quitting smoking is a vital step towards better sleep.
Treat & Relieve Allergies
Allergies can cause nasal passages to swell, leading to sleep apnea. Treating allergies with over-the-counter or prescription medications can help keep those airways clear.
How Oral Appliance Therapy Helps
Oral appliance therapy is a popular and effective treatment for sleep apnea. It's a non-invasive option that many patients in Collierville find comfortable and convenient.
Dr. Blanton specializes in this therapy, crafting customized solutions for your needs.
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral appliance therapy involves wearing a custom-fitted device, similar to a mouthguard, while you sleep. It helps keep the airway open, preventing the interruptions in breathing that characterize sleep apnea.
Types of Oral Appliances
Mandibular Advancement Devices: These devices gently push your lower jaw forward, keeping the airway open.
Tongue Retaining Devices: These hold your tongue in place to prevent it from blocking the airway.
Advantages
This therapy offers several benefits, including ease of use, comfort, and portability. It's an excellent option for those who find CPAP machines cumbersome or uncomfortable.
What to Expect
Dr. Blanton will fashion your device to the contours of your mouth, jaw, and face. The process includes an initial consultation, fitting, and follow-up appointments to ensure optimal results.
Oral appliance therapy is one of the many ways we address sleep apnea at our Collierville practice. To learn more about this treatment and how it might benefit you, visit our oral appliance therapy page.
Other Ways to Treat
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a complex condition, and the right treatment can vary from person to person.
Mid-South TMJ and Sleep Apnea Dental Treatment Center in Collierville offers a range of solutions to ensure that every patient receives the care best suited to their needs. Here are some other treatment options.
Medical Intervention
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): CPAP is a standard and effective treatment for sleep apnea.
It involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that delivers a continuous air stream, keeping the airway open throughout the night.
It's a proven method but may take some getting used to.
Combination Therapy
CPAP plus Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): A combination of CPAP and oral appliances like MADs can provide the most effective relief for some patients.
This approach leverages the strengths of both treatments, offering a customized solution that addresses the unique challenges of each patient's condition.
Surgery
In some cases, Dr. Blanton may find surgical intervention necessary to address structural issues contributing to sleep apnea.
We will carefully evaluate your situation and discuss all available options, ensuring you're fully informed and comfortable with your treatment plan.